1 1 The elder, to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in truth—and not only I, but all who know the truth a a v1 "The chosen lady and her children" most likely refers to a local church and its members. 2 —because of the truth that lives in us and will be with us forever. 3 Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from our Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of our Father, in truth and love.
4 I was so glad to find some of your children living by the truth, just as our Father commanded us. 5 And now I ask you, dear lady—not a new command, but the one we've had from the beginning—that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment you have heard from the beginning: that you should walk in love.
7 For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who deny that Jesus Christ came in the flesh. Such a person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch yourselves, so that you don't lose what we have worked for, but receive a full reward. 9 Everyone who goes too far and does not remain in the teaching of Christ has no relationship with our Father; whoever remains in the teaching has both our Father and the Son. b b v9 To deny the Son is to lose the Father. John's letter insists they cannot be separated — to abide in Jesus' teaching is to have both our Father and his Son together. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, don't welcome him into your home or greet him, 11 for whoever greets him shares in his evil deeds.
12 Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to come to you and speak face to face, so that our joy will be complete. 13 The children of your chosen sister greet you.